In a heartfelt and emotional broadcast, popular radio presenter Nikki Osbourne has revealed the deeply personal reasons behind her decision to leave the Nova 106.9 Breakfast show in Brisbane. The 44-year-old explained that a frightening health scare and a major career opportunity in the United States led to her departure after less than a year on air.
A Health Scare That Changed Everything
During Friday's show, Osbourne shared that a painful mouth condition she experienced earlier this year turned out to be far more serious than she initially let on. "I had a very sore mouth when I started this job, and it kept getting worse and worse, and then I was diagnosed with a tumour," she told listeners. She admitted that while she downplayed the issue on air, the diagnosis "scared the life out of me" and ultimately served as a stark reminder of life's fragility.
"It scared the life into me because I realised life is very short and you can't put off your dreams," Osbourne stated, framing the health crisis as a catalyst for change.
Chasing the 'Bush Barbie' Dream in America
The other primary driver for her exit is a thrilling new professional venture. Osbourne announced that she will be making her own 'Bush Barbie' series in America next year. Her online alter ego, 'Bush Barbie', where she discusses hot topics on YouTube, has garnered significant attention, particularly with backing from wildlife personality Robert Irwin.
"Thanks to Robert Irwin, especially, Bush Barbie's taking off, and America keeps knocking, and I can't say no," she revealed, expressing her excitement for the project. This opportunity, coupled with the gruelling nearly two-hour daily commute from her home on the Sunshine Coast to the Brisbane studio, made her decision clear.
Major Shake-Up for Brisbane's Airwaves
Osbourne's departure is part of a significant reshuffle at Nova 106.9. Her exit follows closely that of her co-host, Ash Bradnam, a 20-year veteran of the station who helped launch it in Brisbane back in 2005. Bradnam gave an emotional farewell, thanking listeners for two decades of support.
Despite her short tenure, Osbourne's impact was notable. The Ash, Luttsy and Nikki Osborne show recently reached number one in the Brisbane market according to the latest GfK survey, marking a high point for the programme.
The station has moved quickly to announce a new lineup. From 19 January, the coveted Breakfast slot will be hosted by Olympic swimming legend Susie O'Neill, who returns to radio after previously hosting a Breakfast show for over ten years. She will be joined by David 'Luttsy' Lutteral and Nick Allen-Ducat, in what is being billed as one of the biggest comebacks to Brisbane radio.
